Write a 300 word or so essay that examines one of the questions listed below. (Again, 300 words is NOT a word “limit,” but just a guideline, something to shoot for when you are writing.)
Here are the topics. Pick one to answer:
1. Why is it, according to Pollan, that “every new step in the direction of simplification…leads to unimagined new complexities” (185)? Look at this as a general principle as it relates to agriculture.
2. Pollan breaks down modern agricultural into two opposing “paradigms,” the monocultural paradigm and the biodiversity/organic paradigm.[1] What characterizes each group, as Pollan sees it? How do culture and cultural values play into the monocultural paradigm? How does economics play into the monocultural paradigm? How does desire play into this? In Pollan’s view, what paradigm does biotechnology support? How does it support it? How do these things look when viewed through the Apollonian and Dionysian dichotomy? (You don’t have to answer all of these subquestions. These are just aspects that could be explored.)
Note:
With both questions, would invite you to look at the issues in terms of the Apollonian and Dionysian. Also, with both questions, you are free to expand upon what Pollan says in this chapter as long you note this and explain how it is consistent with this thinking in this chapter. This is to say, if you follow his logic, you may go beyond what he actually says. However, indicate what you are doing and how your ideas follow Pollan’s thinking. (You are also free to work with the other authors we’ve covered. Friedman and Marx, for example, could definitely contribute to this conversation, as could Plato.)
[1] Generally speaking, “paradigm” most often refers to a pattern or model. However, the term paradigm can also refer to a “worldview.” I think both definitions are acceptable, here.
Additional Notes (true for all the writings assignments):
You must support your arguments with the material that was assigned and you must cite it accurately. (Parenthetical reference [in-text citation] is enough. You don’t have to follow any style guide or rules… just make sure your reader [that would be me] can find what you’re pointing to.)
The use of outside sources in these assignments is prohibited. All of the material you use and cite must come from what was assigned in this module. The whole idea of this class is to simply work with the assigned material, to explore and play with these ideas.
Double-spaced is preferred.
This is an article that may be helpful:
https://bigthink.com/personal-growth/what-nietzsche-really-meant-the-apollonian-and-dionysian/
